Harriet A. Doheny Gustafson, Criminal Defense Attorney in Wheaton, Illinois

Harriet concentrates on criminal defense, health care, and juvenile. Each area below outlines the kind of case Harriet handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Health Care

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• Juvenile

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Harriet's primary office is at 505 N. County Farm Rd., Wheaton, IL, 60187. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Harriet usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Harriet discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Harriet for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Harriet walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Harriet offer a free consultation?

  Harriet charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Harriet's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Harriet's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in Illinois typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Harriet gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Harriet take my case if I'm outside Wheaton?

  Harriet is licensed in Illinois. Matters governed by Illinois law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Harriet will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Harriet?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Harriet will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Harriet accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Harriet's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.